Historic estate and gardens enter administration

The administrators said the popular wedding venue will remain open for the time being

A "beloved" historic estate and popular wedding venue has entered administration.

The trustees of the 16th-Century Hestercombe House and Gardens, near Taunton, Somerset, have said running the site is no longer viable due to low visitor numbers and cost pressures.

Bristol firm Forvis Mazars, which has been appointed as an administrator, issued a statement confirming it will remain open for the time being.

Mr Boughey, from Forvis Mazars, said it is "sad" to see this happen "despite the passion and commitment of the current management team".

He added that visitor numbers have been down over the past year and wedding operations are failing to deliver the profitability the wider estate requires.

"Like many businesses, Hestercombe has continued to suffer with increasing cost pressures to operate, leaving the trustees with little option but to seek the protection of Administration and the support of administrators.

"Hestercombe will continue to remain open and operate normally for the time being, whilst we explore all options for future sustainability," he added.

Sale of assets

Hestercombe Gardens trustees said the "beloved historic estate and gardens" played a central role in the cultural and social life of Somerset and beyond.

It is hoped the administrators will ensure a structured and professional approach to managing the trust's cash flows and assets while exploring potential avenues for future restructuring and/or the sale of assets", a trustee spokesperson added.